บท 69: Sanctuary Defenders! Pt. 1
[Day: Friday]
[Time: Noon]
[Location: Sanctuary University]
Jessica gathered me, Baylee, Melissa, and Faith in a secluded corner of Sanctuary University's vibrant courtyard, the warm noon sun casting long shadows across the cobblestones from its zenith. A sense of urgency tinged her voice as she addressed me, Baylee, Faith, and Melissa, the gravity of our conversation palpable in the air.
"We need to do more than just support Naomi from the sidelines and I don't feel like we're getting anywhere after yesterday's meeting," Jessica began, her gaze sweeping over each of us. "The Syndicates are gaining strength, and Karma needs to be ready. We can't afford to wait nor can we just sit aside after Naomi did so much to get us away from the hands of The Syndicates."
Baylee's brow furrowed with concern. "But what can we do? We're not fighters, we haven't even seen a big fight unlike Shiro and Nao Nao has."
Jessica's expression hardened with resolve. "Exactly. We need to equip ourselves with more than just support skills. We need to perfect our alchemy, gain battle experience, and recruit more allies who can wield these powers."
Faith's eyes lit up with determination. "Perfecting our alchemy sounds like the right call! It's our chance to make a real impact."
I, leaning casually against a nearby tree, observed the group thoughtfully. "Learning and perfecting alchemy isn't just about power," I interjected. "It requires discipline, control, and strategic thinking. And combat… that's a different realm altogether. I can't just allow you all to throw yourselves out there. You'll die."
Jessica turned to me, her eyes pleading yet determined. "Will you help us, Shiro? We trust your judgment and expertise. You've been in more fights than we can imagine and won all of them! Hell you've even converted our brothers back into being the good guys again."
My smile softened, a sense of pride shimmering in my eyes. "Of course," I replied without hesitation. "But you'll need guidance from experienced alchemists. I'll teach you what I can, but this journey won't be easy. However, I think I might know someone who will be willing to help."
Our discussion continued into the afternoon, filled with plans to seek out mentors and resources for the girls' training. Each member of the group understood the gravity of the decision—to step into the world of alchemy meant preparing for dangers the girls had previously only heard about in gossips from Naomi, Chloe, and Mariana.
As we parted ways that afternoon, the courtyard echoed with a renewed sense of purpose. We were no longer just units in a relationship; we were now comrades bound by a shared mission to take back and protect the city and stand against the rising tide of The Syndicates. With my guidance and their collective determination, we were ready to embark on a journey that would test the girls' courage and strength like never before.
[Day: Friday]
[Time: Afternoon]
[Location: Sanctuary University]
I walked down the halls, in deep thought about who I could ask to help the girls, but I didn't know many alchemists better yet, I didn't know any alchemists at all. Suddenly, it donned on me as I approached Ui's lab. I could ask Ui for help, but I didn't want to put another burden upon her as she already had a lot on her plate.
"C'mon, Shiro. She's quite literally the only alchemists we know of besides Raymond, and she's the only available one. What harm would it be to at least ask," Lustie said, her ears wiggling and a soft smile playing on her lips.
"I suppose," I muttered, walking toward the lab door.
I approached Ui's lab, a place always bustling with the hum of machinery and the faint scent of chemicals. I knocked lightly on the metal doorframe, catching Ui's attention from her workbench. She looked up, her face brightening with a warm smile at the sight of me.
"Shiro! Come on in. What can I do for you?" Ui greeted, her voice carrying a blend of curiosity and readiness to assist.
I stepped into the lab, my expression serious yet determined. "I need your help with something important," I began, choosing my words carefully. "You know of this club called The Sanctuary Defenders—Jessica, Baylee, Melissa, and Faith—they're preparing to learn and perfect their alchemy. They want to support Naomi during this gang war, but they lack experience in mastering their elemental abilities effectively."
Ui listened attentively, nodding thoughtfully as I explained the situation. "I understand and yes I know of the club," she replied, her voice calm yet authoritative. "They're all talented, but harnessing the full potential of alchemy requires guidance and practice."
"Exactly," I agreed, relieved that Ui grasped the gravity of the situation. "You're the most skilled person I know in alchemy and element manipulation. They need your expertise."
[Ui seemed to like that a lot.]
A small smile played on Ui's lips as she nodded in acknowledgment. "Thank you, Shiro. I'd be honored to help," she responded warmly. "Alchemy isn't just about science; it's an art. I can teach them the principles, techniques, and help them refine their elemental abilities."
My expression softened with gratitude. "They respect you, Ui. They'll listen and learn from you," I assured her.
Ui's smile widened. "When do you want to start?" she inquired, already planning ahead.
"As soon as possible," I answered promptly. "They are having their meeting today, so I was hoping you could show up and teach them bit by bit."
Ui nodded in agreement. "I'll prepare a special lesson plan and gather the necessary materials. We'll begin with the basics and gradually progress to more advanced techniques."
"That's perfect," I said, a sense of reassurance settling over me. "They're motivated and eager to learn. I know they'll make you proud."
Ui's eyes gleamed with confidence. "I have no doubt they will," she affirmed warmly. "Let's equip them with the skills they need to protect Sanctuary City."
With a shared sense of purpose, Ui and I began outlining our plans, our conversation blending seamlessly into the hum of activity within the lab. The task ahead was daunting, but with Ui's guidance and my unwavering support, we were determined to empower the girls with the knowledge and skills necessary to face whatever challenges awaited them in the coming days.
-------------------------------------------------
The late afternoon sun bathed Sanctuary University's campus in a warm glow as I gathered Jessica, Baylee, Faith, Melissa, and Joy near the entrance of Ui's lab. Anticipation crackled in the air as the group exchanged excited glances, each wearing a determined expression.
I stood at the forefront, a pillar of calm amidst the bubbling excitement. "Alright, everyone," I began, my voice carrying a blend of seriousness and encouragement, "Today marks the beginning of your alchemy training with Professor Ui. This is crucial for our efforts to support Naomi and Karma, as well as take back and defend Sanctuary City."
Jessica nodded solemnly, her eyes reflecting both determination and a touch of nervousness. "We're ready, Shiro," she affirmed, her voice steady despite the fluttering in her chest.
Baylee, standing close beside Jessica, echoed her sentiment with a resolute nod. "Let's do this," she said, her usual playful demeanor replaced by a focused intensity.
Faith's eyes shone with a mix of excitement and nervousness, but her competitive spirit outshined her hesitation. "I can't wait to get started," she exclaimed, her fists clenched in anticipation.
Melissa, normally confident but no less determined, nodded silently. Her gaze shifted to me, silently conveying her trust in my leadership and the importance of this endeavor.
Joy's expression was a mix of excitement and curiosity, her eyes scanning the lab door where Ui awaited inside. She leaned slightly towards me, a gesture of seeking reassurance and readiness to absorb whatever knowledge awaited them.
With a nod of affirmation, I pushed open the heavy lab door, revealing Ui inside, already immersed in setting up equipment and materials. The lab hummed with the soft whir of machines and the occasional beep of monitors.
"Ui, we're here," I announced, my voice carrying across the room.
Ui turned, her face breaking into a welcoming smile as she approached the group.
"Welcome, everyone," Ui greeted warmly, her eyes sweeping over the eager faces before her. "I'm glad you're all here. Today, we begin your journey into alchemy."
She gestured towards a row of workstations set up with precision instruments and containers filled with various elemental substances. "Alchemy is both an art and a science," she continued, her tone gentle yet authoritative. "Today, we'll start with the fundamentals—understanding elemental properties, energy manipulation, and the principles of transmutation."
Jessica stepped forward, her voice steady with determination. "We're ready to learn, Professor Ui," she declared, speaking for the group. "We want to become proficient alchemists, to protect Sanctuary City and help Karma to the fullest."
Ui nodded approvingly. "Good," she replied, her gaze resting on each of us in turn. "Now, let's begin."
With that, Ui launched into the private lesson of Brginner Alchemy, her explanations clear and concise. She guided the girls through basic exercises, demonstrating techniques with a fluidity born of years of practice. The group listened intently, absorbing every word and observing every movement with focused attention.
As the lesson progressed, hands-on experimentation replaced theoretical discussion. Jessica, Baylee, Faith, Melissa, and Joy eagerly took turns under Ui's guidance, their faces alight with excitement as they manipulated elemental energies, each step bringing them closer to mastery.
Throughout the session, I stood by, offering encouragement and occasional insights gleaned from my own experiences. I watched with pride as each of the girls embraced the challenges of alchemy, their determination shining through every attempt and every correction.
By the end of the lesson, fatigue tinged with satisfaction settled over the group. They gathered around Ui, who smiled warmly at their progress.
"Well done, everyone," Ui praised, her voice a blend of pride and encouragement. "You've made excellent strides today."
Jessica exchanged glances with her friends, a sense of camaraderie and accomplishment binding them closer together. "Thank you, Professor Ui," she said sincerely, speaking on behalf of the group. "We're grateful for your guidance."
Ui's smile widened. "You're all very welcome," she replied warmly. "Remember, mastering alchemy takes time and practice. But with dedication like yours, I have no doubt you'll succeed."
As we filed out of the lab, the sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting long shadows across the campus. The group walked together, their conversation filled with reflections on the day's lessons and plans for future training sessions.
Amidst their shared excitement and determination, I felt a swell of pride. Together, they had taken the first step towards becoming formidable alchemists, ready to defend Sanctuary City against whatever challenges lay ahead.
[Day: Friday]
[Time: Evening]
[Location: Sanctuary University]
Jessica sat down in her seat at the table in the middle of the club room then sighed, her sigh full of slight fatigue. She stared at her hands, remembering the sensation she felt during Ui's lessons.
"My hands still burn..." Jessica said softly, stretching then sighed as she relaxed.
"Your hands burn? My hands feel nice and cool~" Baylee giggled playfully, sitting in her seat beside Jessica.
"So I'm assuming we each have our own Elemental Affinity? I'm sure we didn't get the same results even though we did the same thing," Melissa wondered, sitting in her seat across from Jessica.
"It's like Naruto and Chakra Natures!~ Jess got Fire, I got Water, Faith got Wind, and you got Earth! We also got secondary natures too. Jess got Darkness because she's sarcastic, I got Light because I'm such a good girl, Faith got Lightning because she's good with electronics, and Mel you got Water because you are the most creative out of all of us," Baylee said, a bright smile shining through as she explained.
"I don't think me being sarcastic is why I got Darkness. I'm a fucking occultist," Jessica said sarcastically, merely proving Baylee's point.
Each of us shared glances at one another then shared a soft laugh. Jessica looked around, hearing our laughter and pouted with one cheek puffed out.
"Oh har har har. Laugh it up..." Jessica mumbled, a soft blush growing on her cheeks. "Anyway, we have important business to tend to. We have to meet with Raymond later this evening. I already put an invoice in for our weapons to be made."
"An invoice..? Where the hell did you even get the money?" I asked, raising an eyebrow of curiosity at her.
"You're asking the wrong questions! We're a part of a gang remember? Our methods are illegal still," Jessica said, her gaze shifting to me. "We stole some money from a Black Market.."
"How the heck did you manage that?!" I asked, my tone a mix of surprise and amazement.
"Look, that doesn't matter!" Jessica exclaimed, her tone sounding slightly annoyed at my questions. "This is an important first step if we want to help Naomi in this war. We all understand we won't have as much experience as the others when it comes to fighting and for the time being we never will, but we would still like to help.."
"Damn girl, chill out. You're speaking to me like I'm the feds or something. I would just like to know how you all managed such a feat without dying or at the very least getting caught. I mean the Black Market of Destiny Islands is within Sanctuary Central and the Northern Divisions," I said, leaning against the wall casually.
"I hacked their local banks," Faith said, a proud twinkle in her eyes.
Baylee giggled softly, nodding her head in agreement. "And it was so awesome! You should've seen it she was like 'Now we gotta just hack through the firewalls and kill the Anti-Hack Bugs—' it was just so cool!~"
I chuckled softly as I listened to them, a warm smile playing on my lips. Soon, the classroom door swung open and we turned our attentions to the door, noticing Joy walking in. As Joy entered, she froze seeing my Love Demons floating around.
Joy pointed at Lustie and Passion, her expression full of fear and nervousness. "L-Love D-Demons..?!"
I chuckled softly and got off the wall, walking toward Joy. "Don't worry, they are with me. They are on our side," I said reassuringly, gently grabbing Joy's hand and leading her to the table.
"Joy, meet Lustie and Passion, the Love Demons of Lust and Passion, and my adorable Divine Familiar, Lust-E. These three are my main companions in my day to day life." I introduced, easing Joy's nerves with a soft smile. "Since you know of Love Demons, I'm sure you've seen one before?"
Joy nodded quickly, looking at me in the eyes. "A guy that used to be in the student council has one! She has like this long light crimson hair, beautiful pink eyes, and always carries this flirtatious smile on her face."
"She must be talking about Flirtoria," Lustie chuckled softly, crossing her arms and hovering behind me. "Who was this guy?"
"His name was Amor. He was super flirty and always tried to hit on me. I never liked him. He still calls my phone every now and then, but I never answer because of the bad vibes he gives me. I think he's a part of this evil gang named The Syndromes?" Joy answered, her gaze shifting between me and Lustie.
I covered my mouth, lowering my head from what Joy called The Syndicates. I tried my hardest to stop my laughter, but couldn't contain it any longer. The girls joined in on the laughter as they found delight in the accidental disrespect to The Syndicates.
I let out a soft sigh and rose my head. "They are called The Syndicates, and they are nothing but bad news. The guy we ran into at Verdant Grove yesterday, his name is Lotus and he was one of the leaders."
Joy took a moment to think about the moment, nodding her head slowly. She gazed back at me, holding her hands together in front of her. "Does my dad know that you all are...you know using the club for this type of activities?"
"He does. We ran it by him before forming this club. He said as long as those we aren't here causing trouble that could get him fired, we're safe to form this club. We do need a professor to oversee us however, but the professors we ask all deny us," Jessica answered, reassuring Joy that this was within the guidelines of the university.
Joy nodded, now thinking about what Jessica said about a professor that was needed to oversee the club. "Well, I'm sure I can ask Ui if she wants to oversee us, but she's already gone to Destiny City to hang out with her sister. Apparently, Ui is just as bad of a gambler as Akira is...and she knows who Majesty is which is even worse."
I chuckled softly in the background, shaking my head as I leaned against the wall once again. "They are the Okabe Sisters. Just one is more serious about academics than the other.."
Jessica checked her watch then stood up, her excitement gradually growing within. "Alright ladies, it's about that time to head out a meet with Raymond."
"Whoohoo!~ Time for some firepower!~" Baylee said, her tone full of excitement as she sprang up from her seat.
"Raymond?" Joy asked, tilting her head slightly.
"You'll understand once we get there," Jessica said, smiling at Joy. "Now let's go. He doesn't like when his clients are late."
[Day: Friday]
[Time: Evening]
[Location: Karma Hideout]
Jessica led the group through the labyrinthine corridors of Raymond's hidden workshop, tucked away in the depths of an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of Sanctuary City. The air was thick with the scent of metal and oil, illuminated only by the faint glow of hanging bulbs. As we approached a massive metal door, Jessica knocked confidently, her knuckles rapping against the cold surface.
"Raymond, we're here!" Jessica called out, her voice echoing through the dimly lit corridor.
With a creak, the door swung open, revealing Raymond standing in the shadows. His weathered face was set in a serious expression, his piercing eyes scanning each member of the group with a mixture of scrutiny and respect. Despite his rough appearance, there was an air of authority and expertise that commanded the room.
"Ah, the Little Karma, Sanctuary Defenders," Raymond greeted in a monotone voice that resonated with authority. "Come in, come in."
Jessica ushered her teammates inside, and we spread out in awe of the workshop's contents. Shelves lined with an array of firearms, tools, and equipment filled the cavernous space, each item meticulously organized and ready for use in the ongoing struggle against The Syndicates.
"Good to see you all," Raymond acknowledged with a nod, his gaze shifting from face to face. "Jessica speaks highly of your growing potential."
"We're eager to see the weapons you've crafted for us," Baylee interjected eagerly, her eyes bright with anticipation.
Raymond raised a hand, his gesture commanding attention. "Patience, young defenders. Each weapon here is custom-made to fit its wielder. I can not just hand out any form of equipment."
Melissa's gaze wandered around the workshop with curiosity, while Faith and Joy exchanged excited glances, eager to see what awaited them. I remained silent, my expression calm and observant, absorbing the scene before me with quiet intensity.
"Now, let's get to business," Raymond declared, motioning for Jessica to step forward.
"I'm ready," Jessica affirmed eagerly, stepping closer to Raymond with determination shining in her eyes.
Raymond moved to a nearby shelf and retrieved a sleek flamethrower, its matte black finish catching the dim light and reflecting it faintly. "Behold, Black Embers. Perfect for close-range dark fire attacks."
Jessica accepted the flamethrower reverently, running her hands over its smooth surface and inspecting its intricate design with admiration. "It's incredible. Thank you, Raymond."
Raymond nodded approvingly and turned his attention to Baylee next. "For you, Hikari Sea."
Baylee received an assault rifle adorned with delicate engravings that glimmered softly under the workshop's ambient light. She marveled at its craftsmanship, her fingers tracing the lines of the weapon's contours. "This is beautiful," she remarked, her voice tinged with awe.
"Light and precise," Raymond commented with a knowing smirk. "Also, it has Water and Light Energy within. Made just for you."
Melissa stepped forward eagerly, her eyes fixed on Raymond as he handed her a shotgun named Blue Gaia. "And what about mine?"
"Blue Gaia," Raymond explained, handing over the shotgun. "Ideal for mid-range power and versatility. It offers Single and Double barrel options. It can also switch between Earth and Water ammunition for Single Barrel Mode or you can use both at the same time in Double Barrel Mode."
Melissa examined the weapon with a wide smile spreading across her face. "I love it. Can't wait to put it to good use."
Faith approached next, her gaze fixed on the sniper rifle cradled in Raymond's hands. "What's mine called?"
"Aero-Shot," Raymond replied, passing the rifle to Faith. "Perfect for long-range accuracy and precision shots. With it's Wind and Lightning Affinities, no amount of winds can change the trajectory of each bullet and the bullets are as fast as lightning."
Faith grinned, feeling the weight of the rifle in her hands. "I'm ready to push this baby to its limits."
Joy eagerly stepped forward next, her eyes gleaming with anticipation as Raymond presented her with a sleek machine gun named Ice Queen. "And mine?"
Raymond explained, "Ice Queen. Rapid fire with ice elemental rounds."
Joy's excitement was palpable as she inspected the machine gun, her fingers brushing over its cool, smooth surface. "This is beyond what I expected. Thank you, Mr. Raymond."
I, who had been observing quietly throughout, caught Raymond's eye next.
"And for you, Shiro," Raymond said, reaching for a customized sniper rifle named Purgatory. "As overseer."
I accepted the sniper rifle, feeling its weight and balance in my hands. I inspected it with a critical eye, though firearms weren't my usual forte. "I'm not much for firearms," I admitted softly.
"Purgatory is designed for precision and power," Raymond assured me, his tone confident. "You'll find it suits your skills admirably. Plus, this weapon can also damage the souls of your targets. Perfect for Lotus and the other Immortal Members."
Jessica stepped forward again, gratitude evident in her voice as she addressed Raymond. "We will put these to good use, Raymond. Thank you for your unwavering support."
Raymond nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his weathered lips. "I will be awaiting your final payments of $250,000 soon."
As we filed out of the workshop, our customized weapons in hand, the group felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. We exchanged eager glances and nods, silently acknowledging the weight of responsibility that now rested on their shoulders. Together, armed with Raymond's expertly crafted weapons and fueled by our resolve, we were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead in defense of Sanctuary City.
"Wait, final payments?! That crook..!" Jessica said, finally realizing Raymond's words. "This is a total ripoff!"
"I—" I began, but Lustie stopped me from speaking.
"Nah, let's do this the old fashioned way~ If you paid off their debts, we wouldn't have a proper storyline~ I wanna see where this goes..." Lustie whispered in my ear, watching the girls closely.
"I won't be able to hack into the Black Market again like I did last time. I got very lucky the last time, and I can only assume they have more Anti-Hack Bugs.." Faith said, hugging her sniper to her chest.
Jessica listened to Faith's words, lowering her head then sighed softly. "Great...Now what do we do..?"
"We can...rob a bank from Central Division," Baylee suggested.
Melissa, Faith, and Jessica exchanged glances, each girl silently nodding at one another. Baylee joined in and nodded with them, leaving Joy confused and concerned.
"U-Uhm...I don't think that's the most efficient way of going about things..." She said with uncertainty, a soft nervous laughter escaping her lips.
"C'mon! If you're gonna be a part of the team, you've gotta play a role in this," Jessica said, her gaze meeting Joy's.
Joy looked at me, her eyes requesting me to back her up.
[Agree with Jessica (Heist Mission Begins, Respect from Sanctuary Defenders Increase.)]
[Agree with Joy (Bond with Joy greatly increases, No Heist.)]
I took a moment to think about my options and where both would lead. After giving it some thought, I gently placed my hand on Joy's shoulder. "I think we should see it through. Besides you all won't be alone in this, I will be with you through the entire way.."
[Heart Stealer activated!]
[Respect from Sanctuary Defenders increased!]
[Joy's heart has been stolen.]
Joy closed her eyes, letting out a soft sigh. "Alright...I will see it though, but I don't think my dad's gonna like this too much.."
"We won't get caught, I can promise that," I reassured her with a soft tone, a soft smile tugging at my lips. "I'll keep you all safe.."
[Joy likes that..]
"Alright, I trust you..~" Joy said softly.
With that, the six of us began our way home for the night as we had a long day of planning ahead of us tomorrow. We knew this task would be daunting and grueling as none of us have ever committed an act so grand like this before, but I had to see it through...only because of a bad influential demon wanting a storyline.
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